02-24-2008, 09:09 PM
When to Visit: Romantics will say spring, most everyone else will pick summer. For my money, the best time might be the so-called "off season" between November-March. Lines are shorter, budget accommodations are easier to find, and airfares are apt to be heavily discounted.
You may also get discounts on vacation rentals in July & August because lots of owners leave their properties for vacation time and prices go down.
Where to Eat: Don't hesitate to eat at French restaurant chains like Chez Clément, which serve delicious food at reasonable prices. A group of brasseries presents menus on a common Web site. Some budget travelers eat their biggest meal at lunchtime, when prices are lower than in the evening. But even the tightest budgets should allow for some nice restaurant meals. It's as much a part of the experience as visits to the Louvre or Notre-Dame.
Where to Stay: Start your search: Paris has thousands of two- and three-star hotel rooms that provide comfort and convenience without frills or high costs. Unlike most of Europe, breakfast normally is not included in the room rate.
If you are planning to spend several days in Paris, choose a Vacation Rental in Paris. You will get more space for your family and you will save on restaurants and other services.
Getting Around: Think trains! Use taxis as a last resort. The Paris Metro (RATP) is among the best mass transit systems on earth, if not the finest. Get a "Carte Orange" if you'll be spending more than a few days. It allows unlimited travel for 14 EUR. It's worth the few minutes you'll spend getting a photo ID taken. Don't let someone tell you they are only for locals. Rent a car only if you'll be venturing into the French countryside.
Paris Nightlife: There is something here for most any taste, but not necessarily for every budget. Check local newspaper listings for church concerts, which often cost far less than performances of similar quality in music halls. Clubs are crowded -- and expensive -- on weekend.
ENJOY YOUR STAY !
You may also get discounts on vacation rentals in July & August because lots of owners leave their properties for vacation time and prices go down.
Where to Eat: Don't hesitate to eat at French restaurant chains like Chez Clément, which serve delicious food at reasonable prices. A group of brasseries presents menus on a common Web site. Some budget travelers eat their biggest meal at lunchtime, when prices are lower than in the evening. But even the tightest budgets should allow for some nice restaurant meals. It's as much a part of the experience as visits to the Louvre or Notre-Dame.
Where to Stay: Start your search: Paris has thousands of two- and three-star hotel rooms that provide comfort and convenience without frills or high costs. Unlike most of Europe, breakfast normally is not included in the room rate.
If you are planning to spend several days in Paris, choose a Vacation Rental in Paris. You will get more space for your family and you will save on restaurants and other services.
Getting Around: Think trains! Use taxis as a last resort. The Paris Metro (RATP) is among the best mass transit systems on earth, if not the finest. Get a "Carte Orange" if you'll be spending more than a few days. It allows unlimited travel for 14 EUR. It's worth the few minutes you'll spend getting a photo ID taken. Don't let someone tell you they are only for locals. Rent a car only if you'll be venturing into the French countryside.
Paris Nightlife: There is something here for most any taste, but not necessarily for every budget. Check local newspaper listings for church concerts, which often cost far less than performances of similar quality in music halls. Clubs are crowded -- and expensive -- on weekend.
ENJOY YOUR STAY !